Canada and U.S. sign space agreement

WASHINGTON, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- United States and Canadian space agency officials say they've signed a framework space exploration agreement.

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden and Canadian Space Agency President Steve MacLean signed the agreement Wednesday. It calls for cooperative activities in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes.

Canadian Ambassador to the United States Michael Wilson hosted the signing ceremony at the Canadian Embassy in Washington.

"NASA is very proud of its long and outstanding relationship with Canada, one that has been nurtured during the past four decades with increasing collaboration in a wide range of space science and exploration activities," Bolden said. "As NASA continues to enhance the scientific observation of our planet and the solar system, we are looking to Canada and our other international partners to play key roles in our future exploration plans."

MacLean said, "The United States has been a critical partner for Canada ever since the launch of the Alouette-1 satellite in 1962. From these early beginnings, we have worked together to forge a space alliance that has become a catalyst, driving generations of space expertise, innovation, science, and technological excellence through our participation in space projects that continue to serve the interests of both our nations."